Toyota Motor Corp. and General Motors Corp., the world's two largest automakers, lost ground in an annual survey of ownership costs that includes such measures as resale value and repair costs.
Toyota led in three vehicle categories, down from four last year, and GM led in two, down from three, according to a statement by IntelliChoice.com, a U.S.-based research firm. Ford Motor Co., Honda Motor Co. and the Mini division of BMW AG each topped one vehicle category.
The results demonstrate the growing parity in basic vehicle quality throughout the auto industry, James Bell, editor of IntelliChoice.com, said Wednesday in an interview. The list of winners, which includes first time award recipients Hyundai Motor Co. and Mitsubishi Motors Corp., is among the most diverse in the survey's 23-year history, Bell said.
Toyota's Prius hybrid won IntelliChoice.com's award for best car value under $24,000 (about ¥2.16 million) for the fourth straight year, according to the statement. Toyota's Lexus RX wagon was named the best value among crossovers or sport utility vehicles priced at more than $28,000 (about ¥2.52 million), while the Toyota Tacoma two-wheel drive pickup took the prize for best truck under $26,000 (about ¥2.34 million).
BMW's Mini Cooper convertible won for best car over $24,000. The Honda Odyssey minivan was named best van under $26,000.
IntelliChoice.com determines which vehicles have the "best overall value" by calculating resale value after five years and costs for maintenance and repair, fuel, insurance and state fees.
IntelliChoice.com also named winners in 30 market segments, including subcompacts, luxury, four-wheel drive pickups and full-size vans. Toyota won 12 of those categories, down from 14 last year.